Reading: Genesis 37:1-36

In Genesis 37, we see firsthand the impact that sinful nature of man has on family life.  As we read about Joseph and his family’s dynamics, we can glean important nuggets that can help us in our own family life, as the story reveals to us the roots of family problems.

The roots of family problems are often times based in the following:

a. Favoritism [37:3]

b. Arrogance [37:2-9]

c. Jealousy [37:4, 11]

d. Hate  [37:4, 5, 8]

For wherever there is jealousy (envy) and contention (rivalry and selfish ambition), there will also be confusion (unrest, disharmony, rebellion) and all sorts of evil and vile practices.
James 3:16

So the story of Joseph becomes our example of how the weaknesses and failure of man is woven into and through the fabric of divine plan and destiny.  And when these issues are not addressed, they only serve to divide and separate and erode the health of the family.

Consider the generational affects of envy and strife that started with Abraham’s preference of Isaac over Ishmael, Sarah over Hagar. Then envy was passed on to Isaac who preferred Esau over Jacob, who then out of envy stole his brother’s birth right.

Jacob was then ripped off by his father in law and ended up marrying the wrong daughter who became envious over Rachel being Jacob’s greater love. Envy and strife began spreading to all of Jacob’s children who were born of 4 different women in the same house!  God’s weapon against envy came through Joseph.

This account amplifies the truth that we need a deliverer to come and intervene in the famine that is taking place in every dimension of our life.  So we also see the story of Joseph as a type and shadow of the life of Christ who was to come and endure the injustices of sinful humanity, as He forged ahead to become our deliverer and savior.

Make a decision today to take a stand against the dysfunction that exists in your life and the life of your family by applying the truth of God’s Word to bring solution and deliverance in your life.

When you are angry, do not sin, and be sure to stop being angry before the end of the day.